The University of New England’s sixth president, James D. Herbert, Ph.D., has led the university since July 2017. In that time, UNE has reorganized student support services to be more student-centric and expanded academic programming and facilities on both the Biddeford and Portland campuses. That growth includes new athletic facilities, a new home for Maine’s only medical school, a new business college, and several new undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online.

President Herbert has also helped UNE to greatly improve its financial footing, as reflected by significant credit upgrades. He has also significantly increased fundraising, including securing the largest gift in the University’s history.  

President Herbert is passionate about the role of higher education as the ultimate marketplace of ideas. One of his signature events, called “The President’s Forum,” is a bi-annual panel discussion that allows for open and robust discourse on timely topics, presenting diverse perspectives.  

At gatherings for students, faculty, and the community, Herbert, who came to UNE from Drexel University in Philadelphia, often introduces himself as “one of Maine’s biggest fans.” In Herbert’s social media posts with his wife, Lynn Brandsma, Ph.D., the two often can be seen enjoying the Maine outdoors.